Nagapattinam is a major tourist and pilgrimage location in the state of Tamil Nadu. Nagapattinam, the name derived from Nagur – the land of serpent gods, is credited with praise worthy cultural and historical significance. Nagapattinam once was a thriving and most prominent constituent of Cholamandalam. The glory of the Chola Kingdom had run around the importance of Nagapattinam. The 6th century Nagapattinam Kayaroganam Shiva temple was constructed by Chola Kings.
The Nagapattinam town itself has a long stretch of coastline along the banks of majestic Bay of Bengal. One of the dynamic and the best harbors in South India is located at Nagapattinam. It has a long pristine beach attracting leisure travelers. The beach is perfectly ideal for adventurous water sports and beach entertainments like beach volleyball, boating, catamaran rides and water theme parks. A min museum and a light house add the majestic view of the beach.
Nagapattinam is renowned as a pilgrim center as well with many shrines of Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. Nellukkadai Mariamman, Shri Kayahorana Swami, Sowriraja Perumal and Neelayathatchi Amman are few famous shrines in Nagapattinam. This town houses a salt swamp making it one of the most bio-diverse locations in India.
Nagapattinam has also made important contributions to the growth of Buddhism. Mentions of Nagapattinam can be seen in ancient Buddhist literature as Padarithitha. Sudamani Vihar, a famous Buddha Vihar was built by a Chinese king, is specimen of Buddhists’ activities in Nagapattinam.
Nearby attractions in Nagapattinam includes The 17th century Dutch fort located at Tranquebar, Velankani church, a famous basilica known as Our lady of Good Health church and Nagore, a prime Islamic religious destination with a renowned Sufi shrine and dargah. The only temple in India dedicated to Shani (Planet Saturn) is near to Nagapattinam.